Is having a period necessary?

INSTEAD of going through the menstrual cycle, many women would rather get a text saying, “You’re not pregnant, no hormonal issues, you’re fine.”

But it doesn’t quite work that way, and the sometimes agonising monthly periods have to be endured.

However, is a period necessary?

Obstetrician gynaecologist (ObGyn) Dr Ryan Halsall says yes, but you don’t need 12 per year to be healthy.

Dr Halsall said a period:

1. Lets you know your hormones are in check

“The menstrual cycle is a complex symphony of hormonal changes. Its presence, moreso its regularity, lets us know that the female hormones are functioning right,” he said. “Irregular or absent cycles are a sign of an underlying hormonal problem such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, thyroid disease, and even brain tumors.”

2. Helps you predict fertile periods

Dr Halsall said if all the bells and whistles of your hormonal profile are in sync, then you and your doctor can determine your fertile periods. He said this is good whether you’re planning to get pregnant or avoid pregnancy altogether.

3. Regular periods can prevent cancer

The ObGyn explained that in this context, the converse is more accurate. “Women who suffer from oligomenorrhea (few periods) or amenorrhea (no periods) may run increased risk of endometrial cancer. This can be reduced by ensuring you have at least four periods per year with the aid of oral contraceptive pills,” he said.

Dr Halsall said there is a flip side as periods can also be a health issue where there is:

1. PMS

2. Heavy periods

3. Painful periods.

He said these are not only physical ailments, but can affect women socially and psychologically.

“If your periods are bothersome, there’s no reason you can’t limit yourself to just four per year. Drug companies have even come out with contraceptive pills that let you see just four periods per year. You can use the regular pills, but those have to be under the supervision of an ObGyn,” Dr Halsall said.

— KIMBERLEY HIBBERT